CDL programs

160 hours | 4 weeks | Contact for pricing.

After the completion of the above course the student is given CDL Exams including Pre-Trip Inspection, Skills and Road Test on our parking lot. Columbia Driving School offers day, evening and weekend classes. Our professional staff always tries to meet individual needs of our students.

Our Class A Tractor/Trailer Operator program is designed for entry level driver preparation of the Illinois CDL test and successful employment through an intensive 4 Week program. Field training includes both observation and behind the wheel time. The field training consist of driving in training areas that include a combination of highway, city and heavy traffic driving. Drivers graduating from this course will be prepared to work nationwide, regionally and locally for the nation's largest truckload carriers. 

  • 40 hours of classroom instruction.

  • 60 hours of remedial training (additional classroom and/or observation time).

  • 20 hours of observation time.

  • 20 hours training yard behind the wheel instruction, which are performed one-on-one with a properly licensed CDL instructor and vehicle.

  • 20 hours behind the wheel instruction on public street and highways, also performed one-on-one with properly licensed CDL Instructor and vehicle.

200 hours | 5 weeks | Contact for pricing.

  • 60 hours of classroom instruction.

  • 80 hours of remedial training (additional classroom and/or observation time).

  • 20 hours of observation.

  • 20 hours training yard behind the wheel instruction, which are performed one-on-one with a properly licensed CDL instructor and vehicle.

  • 20 hours behind the wheel instruction on public street and highways, also performed one-on-one with properly licensed CDL Instructor and vehicle.

Columbia Driving School provides all books and materials necessary for the Student to successfully compete the program.

This program is intended to provide the necessary skills to pass the CDL examination as well as to be able to enter over-the-road or local driver. The course includes classroom instruction, as well as in truck skill and street training.

Classroom instruction encompasses preparation for SOS (Secretary of State) written exam for CDL A learner's permit (written exams includes General Knowledge, Combination Vehicle and Air Brakes) ,preparation for additional endorsement (Double-Triple, Hazardous materials, Tankers), deal with accident scenes and reporting procedures, read and interpret control systems, defensive driving techniques, cargo handling, preventative maintenance, personal health and safety, night driving, loads and weight distribution.

Skill and Road practice encompasses read and interpret controls perform pre-trip vehicle inspection, complete post-trip vehicle condition report, bobtailing driving, safe and efficient braking, back and dock tractor trailer, uncouple trailer and couple trailer, exercise basic control, execute shifting, perform visual search, manage and adjust vehicle speed and space relations, identify potential driving hazard and perform emergency maneuvers, identify and adjust to difficult and extreme driving conditions, read shipping documents and evaluate cargo load, preparation SOS CDL Exams.

The course doesn't only include the 160 hours minimum Secretary of State, but moreover it provides additional training hours, as well as eligibility for three endorsements: Double-Triple, Tankers, Hazmat Material. The 5 weeks program is recommended for students for all entry level drivers.

240 hours | 6 weeks | Contact for pricing.

  • 90 hours of classroom instruction 

  • 80 hours of remedial training (additional classroom and/or observation time)

  • 20 hours of observation

  • 25 hours training yard behind the wheel instruction, which are performed one-on-one with a properly licensed CDL instructor and vehicle.

  • 25 hours behind the wheel instruction on public street and highways, also performed one-on-one with properly licensed CDL Instructor and vehicle.

Columbia Driving School provides all books and materials necessary for the Student to successfully compete the program.

The 6-Week Program covers all the aspects of 5-Week Program. This program provides detailed training objectives in handling a combination vehicle and offers comprehensive training which will make it easier to enter the trucking industry.

Can I get my CDL for free?

Yes!

If you want to get a free CDL, visit illinoisworknet.com.

They provide a variety of WIOA services and free training programs in centers all around Illinois. Tap the button below to find a location near you. Call and make an appointment to begin your orientation.